MWCNT Localization and Electrical Percolation in Thin Films of Semifluorinated PMMA Block Copolymers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Diblock copolymers (BCP) are used as templates for nanomaterial dispersion.
• Controlling the localization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) in BCPs is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the use of modified MWCNT within a PMMA-PsfMA BCP template.
• To achieve controlled dispersion and localization of MWCNT for enhanced properties.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of BCP/MWCNT composite films via dip-coating.
• Modification of MWCNT with perfluoroalkyl groups.
• Characterization using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Electron Microscopy (SEM, TEM).

Main Results:

• BCP self-assembled into micelle-like domains (PMMA shell, PsfMA core).
• MWCNT preferentially localized in the embedding phase outside the micelles.
• Perfluoroalkyl modification significantly improved MWCNT dispersion and compatibility.

Conclusions:

• Modified MWCNT form defined electrical conduction paths within the BCP matrix.
• Improved dispersion leads to reliable electrical conductivity, unlike non-modified MWCNT.
• This approach is promising for electronics and vapor sensing applications.